The plethora of changes has not been limited to Geelong's AFL side this week, with the VFL Cats also making six changes as they prepare to take on St Kilda at RSEA Park on Saturday. 

Some valuable experience returns to the line-up this week with Mitch Knevitt and Jack Bowes both selected, after the pair featured at AFL level last Saturday in Geelong's clash with the GWS Giants. 

Jed Henderson and Ben Pennisi will both feature in the blue and white Hoops for the very first time, while Mason Williams and Tanner Lewis also return to the team. 

A Cats quartet come out of the team after returning to Geelong's AFL side in last night's victory over St Kilda, including debutant Jay Polkinghorne, James Worpel, Gryan Miers and Brad Close. 

Rhys Stanley will also miss Saturday's game through injury, while Charlie McKinnon rounds out the changes for the clash with St Kilda. 

The VFL Cats will be searching for an 11th consecutive win when they take on the Saints at RSEA Park on Saturday, with the game set to commence at 12.05pm AEST. 

A victory will officially secure a top-four spot for Geelong and will all but lock in a top-two finish, with still three more games remaining in the home and away season. 

2026 VFL Round 17

St Kilda v Geelong Cats
RSEA Park, Melbourne
12.05pm AEST, Saturday July 18

In: Mitch Knevitt, Jack Bowes, Jed Henderson, Mason Williams, Ben Pennisi, Tanner Lewis

Out: Rhys Stanley (injured), Jay Polkinghorne, James Worpel, Gryan Miers, Brad Close (AFL), Charlie McKinnon